Protective material applicator device

ABSTRACT

Devices, methods and systems disclosed herein relate to the application of a protective film on a surface of an electronic device that instantly reduces air bubbles and eliminates the waiting time usually required when using a wet fluid solution. In one embodiment, a flange may be configured to couple to the protective film. The flange may aid in the accurate application of the protective film to the electronic device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/715,496, entitled “PROTECTIVE MATERIAL APPLICATOR DEVICE” filed onMay 18, 2015, which is in turn a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/844,465 entitled “PROTECTIVE MATERIAL APPLICATOR DEVICE”filed on Mar. 15, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,033,019, which is in turn acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/361,562entitled “PROTECTIVE MATERIAL APPLICATOR DEVICE” filed on Jan. 30, 2012,now U.S. Pat. No. 9,010,396, which is in turn a continuation-in part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/208,264 entitled “PROTECTIVEMATERIAL APPLICATOR DEVICE” filed on Aug. 11, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No.8,393,377, which in turn is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/053,081 entitled “PROTECTIVE MATERIAL APPLICATORDEVICE” filed on Mar. 21, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,905,107, which inturn claims the benefit of and the priority of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/444,597 filed on Feb. 18, 2011. The entire contentsof all of these applications are hereby incorporated by referenceherein.

BACKGROUND Field

The present invention relates to an apparatus, method and/or system forapplying a protective material or layer to a surface of a device. Forexample, the present invention may allow a user to apply a protectivematerial or layer to the surface or screen of an electronic device.

Description of Related Art

Electronic devices such as cellular phones, portable tablet computersand the like are gaining widespread popularity. For example, the Apple®iPhone® is estimated to reach 100 million users by the end of 2011. Inaddition, almost 15 million Apple® iPads® have been sold to date. Thesheer volume of electronic devices sold by other major competitors suchas Motorola®, Samsung®, HTC®, etc. only further confirms that consumersfind these products very desirable. It should not come as a surprisethat these same consumers want to protect their products from accidentaldenting, scratching or otherwise damaging these electronic devices.Accordingly, manufacturers have produced different cases, protectivefilms and the like to help the consumer keep their electronic devicessafe.

However, with the progress of touch-based screens for operating theseelectronic devices, thick cases might not be suitable, as these casesmay prevent the user from operating the device. Accordingly, manymanufacturers are now producing clear films that keep, for example, thedisplay of the electronic device clean while at the same time protectingthe screen from accidental damage such as scratching.

Despite the benefits that these films or screen protectors provide, manydrawbacks remain in this relatively new technology. For example, many ofthese protectors require the use of a wet fluid solution to enable thefilm to adhere to the electronic device. Using a wet fluid solution ismessy, requires a lot of work by the user to “squeegee” the excess out,and might not eliminate all annoying air bubbles immediately. Indeed,many of these products warn that 24-48 hours may be needed before theuser can effectively determine if the trapped air bubbles are going todisappear. In other words, some consumers may have to wait for daysbefore determining if the film was applied correctly. To some consumers,this long wait is annoying and may reduce the enthusiasm of an otherwiseexciting moment of obtaining a cutting-edge electronic device. Moreover,the electronic device might not be functional until the solution driesout in 24-48 hours. Alternatively, the consumer might not want to riskusing the device in fear during this time period as he or she maybelieve that usage may impact the film prior to drying of the wet fluidsolution.

What is needed is an applicator that eliminates the drawbacks above andallows a user to apply the protective film effectively for use withoutwaiting for the protective film to dry and/or waiting for the airbubbles to disappear.

SUMMARY

Devices, methods and systems are provided to apply a protective film ona surface of an electronic device which reduces or eliminates airbubbles and eliminates the waiting time usually required when using awet fluid solution.

In one embodiment, a roller apparatus may be used in a protective filmapplication process to eliminate air bubbles and assist the user inapplying the film to the electronic device correctly. The rollerapparatus may include a carriage or housing, one or more rollers coupledto or integrated with the housing and a splitter configured to separatethe protective film from a backing material during the applicationprocess.

In one embodiment, the roller apparatus may be configured to bemaneuvered into position with the splitter between the exposed portionof the protective film and the backing with the roller portion of theroller apparatus trailing behind. As the user pulls the roller apparatusfrom a first edge of the electronic device to a second edge of theelectronic device, the protective film may be removed from the backing,applied to the device, and any air bubbles may be immediately squeezedout such that in one motion the protective film may be applied to theelectronic device without the use of a wet fluid solution.

In one embodiment, a method of applying the protective film to anelectronic device is provided. For example, first, a user may remove oneedge of the protective film from a backing and line up the removed edgeof the protective film with the corresponding edge of the electronicdevice. No wet fluid solution is sprayed on or applied to the surface orscreen of the electronic device. Next, the roller apparatus may bemaneuvered into position with the splitter between the exposed portionof the protective film and the backing with the roller portion of theroller apparatus trailing behind. As the user pulls the roller apparatusfrom a first edge of the electronic device to a second edge of theelectronic device, the protective film may be removed from the backing,applied to the device, and any air bubbles may be immediately eliminatedsuch that in one motion the protective film may be applied to theelectronic device without the use of a wet fluid solution.

In one embodiment, for example, where the protective film includes anoverlay portion intended to be pressed down on the sides perpendicularor orthogonal to the main surface, the user may press the protectivefilm down on the intended, corresponding areas and use the rollerportion of the roller apparatus to further press down on the protectivefilm.

In one embodiment, a roller apparatus may include an integrated standfor propping up or holding the electronic device. In a first operationalconfiguration, the roller apparatus may be used in a protective filmapplication process to eliminate air bubbles and assist the user inapplying the film to the electronic device correctly. In a secondoperational configuration, the roller apparatus may be used as a standfor propping up the electronic device. The roller apparatus may includea carriage or housing, one or more rollers coupled or integrated withthe housing and a stand portion for propping up the electronic device.

In one embodiment, to further assist the user in applying the protectivefilm, a roller apparatus guide may be used in conjunction with a rollerapparatus. The roller apparatus guide may be a substantially rectangularblock having three or more portions including an inner wall defining acavity used to receive or mount a mobile communication device, a rollersupporting surface configured to be flush with a mounted mobilecommunication device and a set of roller guiding rails which may beparallel to one another and raised above the roller supporting surface.In addition, the roller apparatus guide may include pressing portions toassist the user when applying the protective film. a film applicationsystem may include a roller apparatus, a roller apparatus guide, amobile communication device, a protective film to be applied to a mobilecommunication device, and a wedge. Here, a wedge is incorporated to helpthe user apply the film to the mobile communication device. The wedgemay be substantially triangular in shape, although minor variations areallowed provided that the functionality of the wedge remains. The wedgemay comprise three adjacent, connected surfaces forming the structure ofthe wedge. The spacing created by the connecting of surfaces may behollow or, in one embodiment, may be filled. The wedge may function toassist in removing the backing of the film during the film applicationprocess.

In one embodiment, provided is an apparatus graspable by a user's handfor receiving any of a plurality of mobile communication device inserts,each of the plurality of mobile communication device inserts having amobile communication device receiving cavity of a different shape orsize configured to receive a mobile communication device of a particularshape and size, the apparatus for applying a protective layer tosurfaces of different mobile communication devices, the apparatuscomprising: a body defining a well for receiving any of the plurality ofmobile communication device inserts; and a pair of rails attached to thebody portion for guiding a roller used to apply the protective layer.

In one embodiment provided is an insert apparatus serving as a physicalinterface for a mobile communication device and a well apparatus tofacilitate applying a protective layer to a surface of a mobilecommunication device, the insert apparatus comprising: a ring forreceiving the mobile communication device, the ring including an outerwall having a perimeter sized to removably fit into a cavity of the wellapparatus, and an inner wall defining a cavity sized to fit the mobilecommunication device.

In one embodiment, provide is a system for applying a protective layerto a surface of a mobile communication device, the system comprising: aroller for applying the protective layer to the surface of the mobilecommunication device; an insert for receiving and securing the mobilecommunication device; and a base apparatus configured to receive theinsert and the mobile communication device, the base apparatusincluding: a body defining a well for receiving the insert, and a pairof rails attached to the body for guiding the roller for applying theprotective layer to the surface of the mobile communication device.

In one embodiment, provided is a system for applying a first protectivelayer to a first surface of a first mobile communication device and asecond protective layer to a second surface of a second mobilecommunication device, the system comprising: a first insert having acavity sized to receive and secure the first mobile communicationdevice; a second insert having a cavity sized to receive and secure thesecond mobile communication device; a base apparatus configured toreceive the first insert and the first mobile communication device whenthe second insert and the second mobile communication device is notreceived by the base apparatus, and further configured to receive thesecond insert an the second communication device when the first insertand the first mobile communication device is not received by the baseapparatus, the base apparatus including: a body defining a well forreceiving the first insert and the first mobile communication devicewhen the second insert and the second mobile communication device is notreceived by the base apparatus, and further configured to receive thesecond insert an the second communication device when the first insertand the first mobile communication device is not received by the baseapparatus, and a pair of rails attached to the body for guiding a rollerfor applying the first protective layer to the first surface of thefirst mobile communication device when the first insert and the firstmobile communication device are received by the base apparatus, the pairof rails further for guiding the roller for applying the secondprotective layer to the second surface of the second mobilecommunication device when the second insert and the second mobilecommunication device are received by the base apparatus.

In one embodiment, provided is a screen protector application system forapplying a protective material to a surface of an electronic device, thesystem comprising: a roller apparatus configured to press the protectivematerial against the surface of the electronic device; a base apparatusgraspable by a user's hand for receiving the electronic device and forsupporting the roller apparatus, the base apparatus including: a bodyhaving a roller-supporting surface for supporting the roller apparatus,the roller-supporting surface further defining a cavity configured suchthat when the electronic device is positioned within the cavity, a topsurface of the electronic device is substantially planar with theroller-supporting surface, and a pair of parallel rails raised above theroller-supporting surface and separated from one another by at least thecavity, the pair of rails for aligning the roller apparatus.

In one embodiment, provided is a screen protector application system forapplying a protective film to a surface of a mobile communicationdevice, the system comprising: a body defining a cavity configured toreceive the mobile communication device, the body having: a supportingsurface defining an upper boundary of the cavity and being positionedoutside of the cavity, and a pair of rails raised above the supportingsurface and being separated from one another by at least the cavity; aprotective film having an application portion and a backing portion, anda first end and a second end separated by a length of the protectivefilm, the first end configured to couple to the body, with the lengthextending over the cavity; and a flange configured to couple to theprotective film and being sized to fit between and abut each of therails when the protective film is applied to the surface of the mobilecommunication device, to reduce movement of the application portiontowards at least one of the rails when the protective film is applied tothe surface of the mobile communication device.

In one embodiment, provided is a screen protector application system forapplying a protective film to a surface of a mobile communicationdevice, the system comprising: a body defining a cavity configured toreceive the mobile communication device, the body having: a supportingsurface defining an upper boundary of the cavity and being positionedoutside of the cavity, and a pair of rails raised above the supportingsurface and being separated from one another by at least the cavity; aprotective film having a first end and a second end separated by alength of the protective film, the first end configured to couple to thebody, with the length extending over the cavity; and a curved flangeconfigured to couple to the protective film and deflect at least aportion of the protective film away from the surface of the mobilecommunication device when the mobile communication device is received inthe cavity and the protective film is coupled to the body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features, obstacles, and advantages of the present invention willbecome more apparent from the detailed description set forth below whentaken in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a roller apparatus, a protective film and anelectronic device according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 2A illustrates a top view of a roller apparatus according to one ormore embodiments described herein.

FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of a roller apparatus accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 2C illustrates a side perspective view of a roller apparatusaccording to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 2D illustrates a front perspective view of a roller apparatusaccording to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 2E illustrates a rear perspective view of a roller apparatusaccording to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 2F illustrates a bottom view of a roller apparatus according to oneor more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 2G illustrates a cross-sectional view of the first roller accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 3A illustrates a protective material set-up configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 3B illustrates a roller apparatus set-up configuration according toone or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 3C illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a roller apparatus accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 4B illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of a roller apparatus accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 5B illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 6A illustrates a roller apparatus with an integrated stand, aprotective film, a film tab and an electronic device according to one ormore embodiments described herein.

FIG. 6B illustrates a roller apparatus with an integrated stand in afirst operation configuration according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein.

FIG. 6C illustrates a roller apparatus with an integrated stand in asecond operation configuration according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein.

FIG. 6D illustrates a side view of the roller apparatus of FIG. 6Caccording to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 6E illustrates a protective material set-up configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 6F illustrates a protective material set-up configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 6G illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective top view of a roller apparatus with anintegrated stand according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective bottom view of a roller apparatus withan integrated stand according to one or more embodiments describedherein.

FIG. 7C illustrates a perspective side view of a roller apparatus withan integrated stand according to one or more embodiments describedherein.

FIG. 7D illustrates a perspective rear view of a roller apparatus withan integrated stand according to one or more embodiments describedherein.

FIG. 7E illustrates a perspective front view of a roller apparatus withan integrated stand according to one or more embodiments describedherein.

FIG. 8A illustrates a roller apparatus with an integrated stand in afirst operation configuration according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein.

FIG. 8B illustrates a roller apparatus with an integrated stand in asecond operation configuration according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein.

FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective bottom view of a roller apparatus withan integrated stand according to one or more embodiments describedherein.

FIG. 8D illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 8E illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 8F illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 8G illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 9A illustrates a roller guiding apparatus according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 9B illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with a film attachedprior to mounting of the mobile communication device according to one ormore embodiments described herein.

FIG. 9C illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein.

FIG. 9D illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller applying a film on themobile communication device according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein.

FIG. 9E illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller almost completed withapplying a film on the mobile communication device according to one ormore embodiments described herein.

FIG. 9F illustrates a film tab removal process according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 9G illustrates removing the mobile communication device from theroller guiding apparatus according to one or more embodiments describedherein.

FIG. 9H illustrates reinforcement of the applied film by using theroller after the mobile communication device is removed from the rollerguiding apparatus according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 10A illustrates a roller apparatus, a mobile communication device,a film to be applied to the mobile communication device, a rollerapparatus guide and a wedge according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein.

FIG. 10B illustrates the wedge of FIG. 10A according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 10C illustrates the wedge of FIG. 10A according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 10D illustrates the wedge of FIG. 10A according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 10E illustrates the wedge of FIG. 10A according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 10F illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller apparatus initiallypositioned prior to the applying of a film on the mobile communicationdevice with the assistance of a wedge according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 10G illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller apparatus initiallypositioned to apply a film on the mobile communication device with theassistance of a wedge according to one or more embodiments describedherein.

FIG. 10H illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller apparatus beingmaneuvered to apply the film on the mobile communication device with theassistance of a wedge according to one or more embodiments describedherein.

FIG. 10I illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller apparatus moving thewedge during the application of a film to the mobile communicationdevice according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 10J illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller apparatus positioned toapply a film on the mobile communication device with wedge located atthe bottom portion of the mobile communication device according to oneor more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 11 illustrates a roller guiding apparatus according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 12A illustrates an insert for a mobile communication deviceconfigured to be removably insertable into the roller guiding apparatusof FIG. 11 according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 12B illustrates an insert for a mobile communication deviceconfigured to be removably insertable into the roller guiding apparatusof FIG. 11 according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates a protective film removably attached to a tab and anaccompanying wedge according to one or more embodiments describedherein.

FIG. 14 illustrates a roller guiding apparatus according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 15 illustrates an insert apparatus inserted into a roller guidingapparatus according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 16 illustrates an insert apparatus for a mobile communicationdevice inserted into a roller guiding apparatus further shown with aprotective film having a tab held in place within a tab receivingportion of the roller guiding apparatus according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 17 illustrates roller guiding apparatus further shown with aprotective film having a tab held in place within a tab receivingportion of the roller guiding apparatus according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 18A illustrates roller apparatus having a finger supportingplatform according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 18B illustrates a perspective view of the roller apparatus of FIG.18A according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 19A illustrates a perspective view of the roller apparatus of FIG.18A positioned on a roller guiding apparatus according to one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 19B illustrates a top view of the system of FIG. 19A according toone or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 20A illustrates a perspective view of a roller apparatus accordingto one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 20B illustrates a side view of the roller apparatus of FIG. 20Aaccording to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 20C illustrates a front view of the roller apparatus of FIG. 20Aaccording to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 21 illustrates a system utilizing a roller guide apparatusaccording to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 22A illustrates a top view of components of the system of FIG. 21according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 22B illustrates a top view of components of the system of FIG. 21according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 22C illustrates a top view of components of the system of FIG. 21according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 22D illustrates a side perspective view of a component of thesystem of FIG. 21 according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 22E illustrates a side perspective view of components of the systemof FIG. 21 according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 22F illustrates a top view of components of the system of FIG. 21according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 23A illustrates a side perspective view of components of the systemof FIG. 21 according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 23B illustrates a side perspective view of components of the systemof FIG. 21 according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 24A illustrates a top view of a system using a roller guideapparatus according to one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 24B illustrates a side perspective view of components of the systemof FIG. 24A according to one or more embodiments described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Apparatus, systems and/or methods that implement the embodiments of thevarious features of the present invention will now be described withreference to the drawings. The drawings and the associated descriptionsare provided to illustrate some embodiments of the present invention andnot to limit the scope of the present invention. Throughout thedrawings, reference numbers are re-used to indicate correspondencebetween referenced elements.

FIG. 1 illustrates a roller apparatus 100, an electronic device 135 anda film 150. The roller apparatus 100 may be used to apply the film 150to a surface of the electronic device 135. The film 150 may protect theelectronic device 135 from damage (e.g., scratches) and/or smudges. Asshown, the roller apparatus 100 may have a width wider than the width ofthe electronic device 135 and the film 150. In this manner, the rollerapparatus 100 may be configured to apply films of varying sizes ontodevices of varying sizes. In addition, the roller apparatus 100 may beconfigured to apply the film 150 to a device with a curved surface (notshown). In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 100 may be increased insize or decreased in size (along with the appropriate proportions) forusage with significantly larger films and devices (e.g., a tablet PC).

FIG. 2A illustrates one embodiment of a roller apparatus 200. As shown,the roller apparatus 200 may include a roller base or carriage 205, afirst or front roller 210, a second or back roller 215, a mid-bar 220, afirst or left splitter 225 and a second or right splitter 230. Theroller base 205 may be constructed out of a rigid material such as aplastic, a metal, a wood and the like. The roller base 205 is configuredto provide structural support for the roller apparatus 200. In addition,the roller base 205 may be sized to be easily manipulated and graspableby a user's hand. The roller base 205 may be configured to hold thefirst roller 210 in place and allow the first roller 210 to “roll” orrotate about a longitudinal axis created by the roller base 205. In oneexample, the roller base 205 may be structured to include a first rodmember (not shown) spanning the entire length of the first roller 210,thereby forming an axis for the first roller 210 to rotate about. Thefirst roller 210 is configured to rotate and apply physical pressure ona film (e.g., film 150 of FIG. 1) in operation. The first roller 210 maybe separated from the mid bar 220 by a first roller gap 235 and may befurther separated from the first splitter 225 and the second splitter230 by a splitter gap 245. These gaps (e.g., the first roller gap 235and the splitter gap 245) may serve as structural openings to allow thefirst roller 210 to rotate freely. The second roller 215 may be aredundant pressure applicator and may be substantially the same size as,and substantially parallel to the first roller 210. The first roller 210and the second roller 215 may be separated by a mid bar 220. The mid bar220 may connect the two ends of the roller base 205 and provide theentire roller apparatus with stability. In addition, a gap 240 may existbetween the mid bar 220 the second roller 215 to allow the second roller215 to rotate freely. The first splitter 225 and the second splitter 230may lie along the same plane and may be slightly curved. The splitters225 and 230 may be configured to be rigid and may function to separatean adhesive portion of a film (e.g., film 150) from its non-adhesivebacking during the application process.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the roller apparatus 200. In oneembodiment, the roller apparatus 200 may be configured to function as afilm applicator for phone-sized devices and may have a length of 1-2inches, a width of 2-4 inches, and a height of 0.5-1 inch. In oneembodiment, the roller apparatus 200 may be configured to function as afilm applicator for tablet-sized devices and may have a length of 1-5inches, a width of 8-12 inches, and a height of 0.5-2 inches. Otherdimensions are also possible depending on the size of the device to beprotected and/or depending on the size of the film to be applied.

FIG. 2C is a side perspective view of the roller apparatus 200. Asshown, the rollers 210 and 215 may include inner cores 255 and 260,respectively. In addition, the rollers 210 and 215 may include outercores 265 and 270, respectively. In one embodiment, the outer cores 265and 270 may be configured to “flatten” at the point of contact andthereby providing pressure in a more uniform and distributed manner,efficiently eliminating air bubbles. The outer cores 265 and 270 may beconfigured to return to its original configuration when not pressed tothe surface of the device (e.g., electronic device 135).

In one embodiment, the mid bar 220 may be curved or straight, and mayhave a length substantially equivalent to the length of the rollers 210and 215, thereby joining the two ends of the roller base 205.Additionally, the mid bar 220 may be configured to have a width shorterthan a diameter of the outer cores 265 and 270. In this manner, the midbar 220 provides structural support to the roller apparatus 200 withoutcontacting the film (e.g., film 150) or the device (e.g., electronicdevice 135) during the application process.

In one embodiment, the splitters 225 and 230 may be located adjacent tothe first roller 210. The splitters 225 and 230 may jut inward from theroller base 205 so as not to extend the footprint of the rollerapparatus 200. In addition, the splitters 225 and 230 may function toremove the non-adhesive backing from the adhesive portion of the film(e.g., film 150) during an application process. While shown to be two,distinct parallel elements, the splitters 225 and 230 may be joinedtogether (e.g., by extending the splitters 225 and 230 towards oneanother) and/or may be constructed as one piece. The splitters 225 and230 may be constructed out of any material with sturdiness sufficientenough to separate and remove the adhesive portion of the film (e.g.,film 150) from a non-adhesive backing. In one embodiment, the splitters225 and 230 may be curved and formed in the shape of a “C” as shown inFIG. 2C. The curvature (“C” shape) of the splitters 225 and 230 mayadvantageously increase the ease of by which the non-adhesive backingfrom the adhesive portion of the film (e.g., film 150) is removed.However, other configurations are possible. For example, a “letteropener” configuration where the splitters 225 and 230 include taperededges may be utilized.

While described in FIG. 2C to have inner cores 255 and 260, certainembodiments of the roller apparatus 200 might not include inner cores255 and 260. In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 200 may compriseany number of rollers (e.g., one roller by removing the second roller215, three rollers—by extending the width of roller base 205 and addinga third roller, etc.) In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 200 maycomprises two parts, a roller (e.g., the first roller 210) and a base(e.g., the roller base 205), wherein the base may include an integratedmid bar (e.g., mid bar 220) and a splitter (e.g., splitters 225 and230).

FIGS. 2D, 2E and 2F show other various views of one embodiment of theroller apparatus 200.

FIG. 2G illustrates a cross-sectional view of the first roller 210. Allprinciples of the first roller 210 discussed herein may be equallyapplicable to the second roller 215. As shown, the outer core 265 maywrap the entirety of the inner core 255. In addition, the inner core 255may have a substantially smaller diameter than the outer core 265. Inone embodiment, the inner core 255 may be constructed out of a rigidmaterial such as metal, wood, a hard plastic, etc. The outer core 265may be constructed out of a different, non-rigid or semi-rigid materialsuch as a rubber, a soft plastic or a polymer. In one embodiment, thematerial used to construct the inner core 255 may be the same as thematerial used to construct the outer core 265. However, in oneembodiment, the densities of the material may be different. For example,the materials used to construct the outer core 265 may be less denseand/or have a lower durometer rating. By having a softer outer core 265,the roller apparatus 200 may be able to press the film (e.g., film 150)onto the device (e.g., electronic device 135) without causing surfacedamage. The softer material of the outer core 265 also helps to moreeffectively and advantageously remove the air bubbles between the film150 and the screen of the electronic device 135.

Turning to FIG. 3A, an operation of the application process will now bediscussed. As shown, a user may apply part of an adhesive portion 355 ofa film 350 by removing a part of the backing portion 360 of the film 350and lining up the adhesive portion 355 to a surface (e.g., a screen) ofan electronic device 335. The roller apparatus 300 might not be used inthis initial set-up step.

Next, as shown in FIG. 3B, the roller apparatus 300 may be configuredand placed into position for operation. More particularly, the rollerapparatus 300 may be placed on top of the film 300 and electronic device335 with the splitters 325 and 330 between the adhesive portion 355 andthe backing portion 360.

Once the roller apparatus 300 is in position, the user may place onehand on the electronic device 335 (for stability) and use the other handto push (and roll) the film 350 onto the surface of the electronicdevice 335 by moving the roller apparatus 300 in a downward direction380. As the roller apparatus 300 moves in the downward direction 380,one or more rollers 310 and 315 press the adhesive portion 355 of thefilm 350 onto the electronic device 335 and squeeze out any air bubblesthat may be trapped between the film 350 and the electronic device 335.Contemporaneously, the splitters 325 and 330 provide a guide for thefilm 350 (i.e., “lead the way”) and remove the backing portion 360 ofthe film 350, thereby progressively providing more of the adhesiveportion 355 of the film 350 for the rollers 310 and 315 to press downon.

After the roller apparatus 300 is pulled through, across or over thelength of the electronic device 335, the adhesive portion 355 of thefilm 350 may be pressed onto the electronic device 335 and the user doesnot have to perform any other functions with respect to the surface withthe applied adhesive portion 355.

Depending on the design of the film 350, this may conclude theapplication process. However, in certain embodiments, where the film 350includes “overhanging” portions, the user may simply press theseportions down onto the sides of the electronic device 335 to concludethe application process.

In this manner, the user does not have to use a squeegee, wet solution,etc. to remove the air bubbles or to apply the adhesive portion 355 ofthe film 350 onto the electronic device 335 and the entire applicationprocess may be improved with respect to, for example, cleanliness, easeof use and convenience.

FIG. 4A illustrates one embodiment of a roller apparatus 400. The rollerapparatus 400 may include an apparatus body 405, a first roller 410inserted into the apparatus body 405 and held in place by via hole 425(and its paired hole—not shown). The roller apparatus 400 may alsoinclude a second roller (not shown) held in place by hole 430 (and itspaired hold—not shown). The roller apparatus 400 may also include asplitter bar 415 and a mid bar 420. The mid bar 420 may be configured tospan the length of the first roller 410 and may provide structuralsupport to the roller apparatus 400.

FIG. 4B illustrates how the roller apparatus 400 may be used to apply aprotective material 450 onto a device 435. The splitter bar 415 may beused to split or separate an adhesive portion of a protective material450 from a non-adhesive backing during the application process. Asshown, the roller apparatus 400 may be placed on the device 435 with theprotective material 450 wedged between the first roller 410 and theelectronic device 435. As the roller apparatus 400 is moved along thesurface of the electronic device 435, the splitter bar 415 exposes theadhesive portion of the protective material 450 prior to the firstroller 410 pressing the adhesive portion of the protective material 450down onto the surface of the electronic device 435. In addition, thenon-adhesive backing is removed during this process.

FIG. 5A illustrates one embodiment of a roller apparatus 500. The rollerapparatus 500 may include a body 505, a first roller 520, a secondroller 515, a splitter 510, a first pressing surface 525 and a secondpressing surface 530. In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 500 may beconstructed as one integrated piece. By integrating the first roller 520and the second roller 515, along with the splitter 510 into the body505, additional structural components may be eliminated. In oneembodiment, the first roller 520 and the second roller 515 may be rodmembers that might not rotate. In another embodiment, the first roller520 and the second roller 515 may be rotatable members.

FIG. 5B illustrates how the roller apparatus 500 may be used to apply afilm 550 onto a device 535. As shown, the roller apparatus 500 mayseparate a top non-adhesive portion of the film 550 from the adhesivebottom portion of the film 550 as the user presses on the first pressingsurface 525 and the second pressing surface 530 while moving the rollerapparatus 500 along the length of the device 535. During such anoperation, the splitter 510 may separate the adhesive and non-adhesiveportions of the film 550 while the rollers 520 and 515 may apply theadhesive portions of the film 550 to the surface of the device 535. Inthis embodiment, the device 535 may be sandwiched or be located betweenthe first roller 520 and the second roller 515. The first roller 520 maycontact the film 550 (as shown in FIG. 5B) on a first surface (e.g., ascreen) of the device 535 while the second roller 515 may contact asecond surface (e.g., a backing) of the device 535.

FIG. 6A illustrates a roller apparatus 600, an electronic device 635, afilm 650 and an optional film tab 695. The roller apparatus 600 may beused to apply the film 650 to a surface of the electronic device 635. Inone embodiment, the film tab 695 may be used to improve the ease ofapplying the film 650 as further discussed below.

FIG. 6B illustrates one embodiment of how the roller apparatus 600 mayappear when mounted on the electronic device 635, for example, during afilm application process. As shown, the roller apparatus 600 may have awidth wider than the width of the electronic device 635. In this manner,the roller apparatus 600 may be configured to apply films of varyingsizes onto devices of varying sizes (e.g., a tablet PC). In addition,the roller apparatus 600 may be configured to apply the film 650 to adevice with a curved surface (not shown).

However, distinct from the first operation configuration, the rollerapparatus 600 may be utilized in a second operation configuration tohold, secure, prop or otherwise position the electronic device 635 suchthat it may be easier for a user to view and/or use the electronicdevice 635. For instance, the roller apparatus 600 may be flipped overto a second operation configuration and rest on a flat surface and thelike to prop up the electronic device 635 and improve viewing angles ofthe electronic device 635 to a user. In this manner, the rollerapparatus 600 may have continued utility even after a film (e.g., film650) is applied by the roller apparatus 600 to the electronic device635. As shown in FIG. 6C, the electronic device 635 sits in an uprightmanner within a cavity of the roller apparatus 600. In one embodiment,the cavity is defined to be a space between a front bar and a firstroller.

FIG. 6D illustrates a side view of the roller apparatus 600 with theelectronic device 635 held in an upright manner. As shown in FIG. 6D,the electronic device 635 may sit angled while still being upright. Byvarying the width of the cavity (i.e., distance between the front barand the first roller), the positioning of the stand edge and the like,the viewing angle may be adjusted between 90 degrees and 135 degrees.For example, as shown in FIG. 6D, the electronic device 635 may be heldat an angle of 120 degrees as measured between a table surface and aviewing surface of the electronic device 635.

FIGS. 6E-6G illustrate one example of how the roller apparatus 600 maybe utilized to apply the film 650 onto a surface of the electronicdevice 635. As shown in FIG. 6E, the film tab 695 may be applied (andmay adhere) to the film 650 and held in a preliminary applicationposition by a user's hand near the surface of the electronic device 635.The film tab 695 may function to aid the user in lining up the film 650with the electronic device 635 and simplifying the application processsince the user may be able to handle a portion of the film tab 695without worrying about whether the film 650 will adhere to the user'sfingers during the application process. The roller apparatus 600 mightnot be engaged at this stage. In one embodiment, the film tab 695 may bepre-installed on the film 650 for the consumer's convenience.

Next, as shown by FIG. 6F, a portion of the adhesive portion 655 of thefilm 650 has been separated from a portion of the non-adhesive filmbacking 660, and has been pressed onto the surface of the electronicdevice 635. At this point of the film application process, the user mayretrieve the roller apparatus 600. The user may then utilize the rollerapparatus 600 and press the adhesive portion 655 of the film 650 to thesurface of the electronic device 635 with one hand while moving theroller apparatus 600 in a length-wise direction. Immediately proceedingthe moment when the roller apparatus 600 presses one section of theadhesive portion 655 of the film 650 onto the surface of the electronicdevice 635 to remove any air bubbles, the user may remove acorresponding section of the non-adhesive film backing 660 with theother hand in preparation. In this manner, the adhesive portion 655 ofthe film 650 may be applied to the surface of the electronic device 635.In addition, any air bubbles between the adhesive portion 655 and thesurface of the electronic device 635 resulting from the applicationprocess may be removed or squeezed out by the roller apparatus 600 beingpressed and maneuvered.

FIG. 6G illustrates an example of how the user may utilize the rollerapparatus 600 to apply the film 650 to the surface of the electronicdevice 635 while removing any air bubbles. Once the adhesive portion 655of the film 650 is applied to the surface of the electronic device 635,the film tab 695 may be removed by peeling (not shown) it from the film650. In this quick and efficient manner, the application process may becompleted.

FIG. 7A illustrates an embodiment of a roller apparatus 700 with anintegrated stand. The roller apparatus 700 may be an embodiment of theroller apparatus 600 of FIG. 6. As shown, the roller apparatus 700 maybe in a first operational position with rollers 710 and 715 in contactwith the flat surface beneath it (e.g., table). The roller apparatus 700may include a body or carriage 705 configured to provide structuralsupport for the rollers 710 and 715. The carriage 705 may includeattached or integrated handle portions 775, a mid bar 720 and twocontact edges 780 and 785 separated by the rollers 710 and 715. Therollers 710 and 715 may include inner and outer cores 755, 760 (shown inFIGS. 7B and 7C), 765 and 770). The carriage 705 may also include adevice insertion portion 795 for insertion of the electronic device(e.g., electronic device 635). However, the device insertion portion 795may be intended for usage when the roller apparatus 700 is flipped over,as shown in FIG. 7B.

In one embodiment, the handle portions 775 may be configured to allow auser to press down on the handle portions 775 to transfer pressure ontothe rollers 710 and 715 during a protective film application process.When the user presses down on the handle portions 775 and maneuvers theroller apparatus 700 along the length of a protective film (e.g., film650), a force may be transferred to the rollers 710 and 715, which inturn applies a pressure to the protective film (e.g., film 650)resulting in adherence of the film (e.g., film 650) to a surface (e.g.,a screen) of the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 635). Inaddition, any air bubbles may be eliminated due to the pressure appliedby the rollers 710 and 715.

The carriage 705 may be constructed out of a rigid material such as aplastic, a metal, a wood and the like. In addition, the carriage 705 maybe sized to be easily graspable and manipulated by a user's hand. Thecarriage 705 may be configured to hold the first roller 710 in place andallow the first roller 710 to “roll” or rotate about a longitudinal axiscreated by the carriage 705. In one example, the carriage 705 may bestructured to include a rod member (not shown) spanning the entirelength of the first roller 710, thereby forming an axis for the firstroller 710 to rotate about. In another example, the carriage 705 mayinclude two insertion portions opposite each other for inserting arotational member of a first roller 710.

The first roller 710 may be configured to apply physical pressure on afilm (e.g., film 650) in operation. The second roller 715 may be aredundant pressure applicator and may be substantially the same size as,and parallel to the first roller 710. The first roller 710 and thesecond roller 715 may be separated by a mid bar 720. The mid bar 720 mayconnect the two ends of the carriage 705 and provide the entire rollerapparatus 700 with stability. In addition, gaps between the mid bar 720and the rollers 710 and 715 may allow the rollers 710 and 715 to rotatefreely without contacting the mid bar 720.

In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 700 may be configured tofunction as a film applicator for phone-sized devices and may have alength of 1-2 inches, a width of 2-4 inches, and a height of 0.5-1inches. In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 700 may be configured tofunction as a film applicator for tablet-sized devices and may have alength of 1-5 inches, a width of 8-12 inches, and a height of 0.5-2inches. Other dimensions are also possible depending on the size of thedevice to be protected and/or the size of the film to be applied.

In one embodiment, the mid bar 720 may be curved or straight, and mayhave a length substantially equivalent to the length of the rollers 710and 715, thereby joining the two ends of the carriage 705. Additionally,the mid bar 720 may be configured have a width shorter than a diameterof the outer cores 765 and 770. In this manner, the mid bar 720 providesstructural support to the roller apparatus 700 without contacting thefilm (e.g., film 750) or the device (e.g., electronic device 735) duringthe film application process.

In one embodiment, the contact edge 780 may be raised and further awayfrom the flat surface (e.g., the table) than, for example, the rollers710 and 715 when the roller apparatus 700 is positioned as shown in FIG.7A.

As shown in FIG. 7B, when the roller apparatus 700 is flipped over, thecontact edge 780 raises the rollers 710 and 715 off a flat surface(e.g., a table) and also orients the device insertion portion 795 suchthat insertion and propping of the electronic device (e.g., electronicdevice 635) is possible. As more clearly shown in FIG. 7C, when theroller apparatus 700 is in this position, the second roller 715 may beraised off the table and may allow for the electronic device (e.g.,electronic device 635) to rest on an outer core 770 of the second roller715. More particularly, the electronic device (e.g., the electronicdevice 635) may be contacted on a first surface by the second roller 715and contacted on a second surface by the stand portion 790 as it sitswithin the insertion portion 795. In one embodiment, the stand portion790 may be a flat panel having a length substantially similar to alength of the first roller 710 and the second roller 715. As shown, thestand portion 790 may be offset from the first roller 710 and the secondroller 715. In other words, the stand portion 790 may be separated fromthe first roller 710 and the second roller 715 by a gap constituting thedevice insertion portion 795.

FIG. 7C is a side perspective view of the roller apparatus 700 in itssecond operation configuration. As shown, the rollers 710 and 715 mayinclude the inner cores 755 and 760, respectively. In addition, therollers 710 and 715 may include the outer cores 765 and 770,respectively. In one embodiment, the inner cores 755 and 760 may beconstructed out of the same material (e.g., a rigid material such asmetal, wood, and a hard plastic). Similarly, the outer cores 765 and 770may be constructed out of the same material (e.g., rubber, a softplastic, an encapsulated gel, etc.) or a softer material. In oneembodiment, the material used to construct the inner cores 755 and 760may be the same as the material used to construct the outer cores 765and 770. However, the densities of the material may be different. Forexample, the materials used to construct the outer cores 765 and 770 maybe less dense and/or have a lower durometer rating. By having softerouter cores 765 and 770, the roller apparatus 700 may be able to pressthe film onto the device (e.g., electronic device 635) without damagingthe surface. In one embodiment, the outer cores 765 and 770 may beconfigured to “flatten” at the point of contact and thereby providingpressure in a more uniform and distributed manner, efficientlyeliminating air bubbles. The outer cores 765 and 770 may be configuredto return to its original configuration when not pressed to the surfaceof the device (e.g., electronic device 635).

FIG. 7D and FIG. 7E show other various views of one embodiment of theroller apparatus 700.

FIG. 8A illustrates a roller apparatus 800 with an integrated stand in afirst operation configuration according to another embodiment of thepresent invention. Generally, the roller apparatus 800 may functionsimilarly to roller apparatus 600 and 700. More particularly, FIG. 8Aillustrates the roller apparatus 800 in position to perform a filmapplication process to apply a film 850 to the top surface of anelectronic device 835. As shown, the roller apparatus 800 may have awidth wider than the width of the electronic device 835. In this manner,the roller apparatus 800 may be configured to apply films of varyingsizes onto devices of varying sizes (e.g., a tablet PC). In addition,the roller apparatus 800 may be configured to apply the film 850 to adevice with a curved surface (not shown). Here, in preparing to applythe film 850 to the electronic device 835, the film 850 may be placed onthe surface of the electronic device 835 with a film tab 896 positionedbetween the film 850 and the surface of the electronic device 835 to beprotected. Further details of the structure of the roller apparatus 800and the film application process are discussed below with respect toFIGS. 8C-8G.

However, as shown in FIG. 8B, distinct from the first operationconfiguration, the roller apparatus 800 may be utilized in a secondoperation configuration to hold, secure, prop or otherwise position theelectronic device 835 such that it may be easier for a user to viewand/or use the electronic device 835. For instance, the roller apparatus800 may be flipped over to a second operation configuration and rest ona flat surface and the like to prop up the electronic device 835 andimprove viewing angles of the electronic device 835 to a user. In thismanner, the roller apparatus 800 may have continued utility even after afilm (e.g., film 850) is applied by the roller apparatus 800 to theelectronic device 835. As shown in FIG. 8B, the electronic device 835sits in an upright manner within a cavity of the roller apparatus 800.In one embodiment, the cavity is defined to be a space or opening withinthe roller apparatus 800.

FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective bottom view of the roller apparatus800 with an integrated stand. One main difference between the rollerapparatus 800 and the roller apparatus 600 and 700 is that the formerfurther includes a slit or slot 825 for receiving and guiding the film(e.g., film 850 shown in FIG. 8B) during the film application process.As shown, the roller apparatus 800 may include a body 805 comprising afirst side panel 806, a second side panel 807 integrated with a standportion 808 having the slit 825. The first side panel 806 and secondside panel 807 may be substantially parallel and include holes oropenings to hold therebetween a first roller 815 and a second roller 820and to allow the rollers 815 and 820 to rotate during usage to apply thefilm. The first roller 815 and the second roller 820 may be separated bya mid portion. The first roller 815 and the second roller 820 may besimilar to the other first and second rollers described herein (e.g.,first and second rollers 715 and 720). The side panels 806 and 807 mayeach integrate a pressing portion (e.g., pressing portion 876—the otherpressing portion is hidden from view) to allow the user to press on andthereby exert pressure on the rollers 815 and 820 during the filmapplication process. The roller apparatus 800 may also include a contactedge 890 and a non-contact edge 895 to define how the roller apparatus800 is positioned to be operable in the second operation configuration.The contact edge 890 is operatively configured to contact a tablesurface and position the roller apparatus 800 to be able to receive andhold upright the electronic device 835. As is shown, the non-contactedge 895 might not contact either the electronic device or the tablesurface in the second operation configuration.

The operational configurations and the structure of the roller apparatus800 having been described, attention will now be turned to the filmapplication process. As shown in FIG. 8D, the user may position the film850 having the backing still attached substantially in the position thatthe film 850 would be in after application. Here, the film 850 may betemporarily adhered to the electronic device 835 via a film tab 896.When positioned as shown, the user may bend the non-adhered portion ofthe film and move it towards the slit 825 of the roller apparatus 800.

FIG. 8E illustrates the film 850 as inserted through the slit 825. Asshown in FIG. 8F, as the film 835 is inserted through the slit 825, thefilm tab 896 becomes exposed to the user. With one hand holding theroller apparatus 800, the user may use his or her other hand to beginpulling the film tab 896 in the direction shown by arrow 855 andseparate the protective layer of the film from the backing. As shown inFIG. 8G, as the user continues to pull the film tab 896 with one handand exposes the protective layer of the film, the user may begin to,move the roller apparatus 800 with the other hand also in the directionshown by arrow 855 to press the exposed portion of the protective layerto the electronic device 835. In this manner, the user may progressivelyapply the protective layer to the electronic device 835 until theprotective layer is completely separated from the backing and completelyapplied to the electronic device 835. Optionally, the user may use theroller apparatus 800 to further redundantly press the protective layerto ensure a thorough application. As discussed above, even after thecompletion of the application process, the roller apparatus 800 maystill retain utility as a device stand (e.g., described as the secondoperational configuration).

Any of the roller apparatus as discussed herein may be used to apply aprotective film onto the surface of a mobile communication device.However, to further assist the user in applying the protective film, aroller apparatus guide 900 may be used in conjunction with a rollerapparatus (e.g., roller apparatus 800).

As illustrated in FIG. 9A, the roller apparatus guide 900 may beconstructed out of materials such as polycarbonate, metal, wood (e.g., acardboard or thick paper) or any combinations thereof. The rollerapparatus guide 900 may be a substantially rectangular block havingthree or more portions including an inner wall 905 defining a cavity 925used to receive or mount a mobile communication device, a rollersupporting surface 910 configured to be flush with a mounted mobilecommunication device and a set of roller guiding rails 915 which may beparallel to one another and raised above the roller supporting surface910. In addition, the roller apparatus guide 900 may include pressingportions 920 to assist the user when applying the protective film. Asshown, the roller apparatus guide 900 may be configured to fit aparticular mobile communication device with a distinct length, width andheight. However, one of ordinary skill will understand that the rollerapparatus guide 900 may be designed to fit any mobile communicationdevice of any length, width and height. Indeed, the cavity 925 formed bythe inner wall 905 may be sized to be substantially the same as themobile communication device to be protected. The fit of the mobilecommunication device within the cavity 925 may be important to ensurethat the applied protective film is correctly positioned.

In one embodiment, the cavity 925 formed by the inner wall 905 may beclosed on a back side by a thin backing layer spanning the length andwidth of the cavity 925. The thin backing layer may be integrated intothe body of the apparatus guide 900 and constructed out of the same ordifferent material. In this implementation, the cavity 925 may be formedby the inner wall 905 and the thin backing layer and the depth of thecavity 925 may be designed to maintain the feature of the mobilecommunication device being flush with the top surface of the apparatusguide 900 when placed into the cavity 925. In this manner, the user maybe able to use the apparatus guide 900 in various situations where aflat support surface is not readily available.

In one embodiment, the roller apparatus guide 900 may include differentremovable and insertable portions to enable the roller apparatus guide900 to fit multiple devices depending on which portions are inserted.For example, consider a first device having dimensions of 5 inches longby 4 inches wide by 1 inch thick and a second device having dimensionsof 3 inches long by 2 inches wide by 1 inch thick. The cavity 925 of theroller apparatus guide 900 may initially be designed to fit the largerfirst device, but not the smaller second device. However, when a moldedportion of 5 inches long by 4 inches wide by 1 inch thick having acavity 925 that is 3 inches long by 2 inches wide by 1 inch thick isinserted in the cavity 925 of the roller apparatus guide 900, theresulting roller apparatus guide 900 may then be utilized to fit thesmaller second device. Other molded portions may be swapped in and outdepending on the size and shape of the mobile communication device.Alternatively, the user may include further additional portions orremove inserted portions as desired to fit the particular devices. Inthis manner, roller apparatus guide 900 may be versatile and cater todifferent mobile communication devices of different sizes.

The structure of the roller apparatus guide 900 having been described,attention will now be turned to the functionality as shown in FIGS.9B-9H.

FIG. 9B illustrates the roller apparatus guide 900, a film 950 to beapplied, and a mobile communication device 935. The film 950 may betemporarily held to the roller apparatus guide 900 via an adhesive (notshown). As the film 950 is sized to correspond to the mobilecommunication device 935 (which is to be inserted or mounted by theroller apparatus guide 900), the film 950 may freely move in and out ofthe cavity 925 as shown.

FIG. 9C illustrates the roller apparatus guide 900 fully mounted on themobile communication device 935, and with the film 950 in aready-to-be-applied position. While roller 700 is shown in FIG. 9C, anyroller may be used in conjunction with the roller apparatus guide 900.The roller 700 may be placed at the top of the roller apparatus guide900, with the film-contacting outer cores held between the rollerguiding rails 915. The distance between the roller guiding rails 915 maybe configured to be the same as the length of the roller 700 therebyforming a path for the movement of the roller 700 along a surface of themobile communication device 935. In other words, the roller guidingrails 915 create a pathway to prevents the roller 700 from veering offthe intended positional direction of application, and thus ensuring thatthe film 950 is applied at a correct position and providing a simplifiedmethodology for imparting the desired precision during the filmapplication process.

As shown in FIG. 9D, after the user pulls a film tab 996 to expose theprotective layer of the film 950 and as the user begins to move theroller 700 from one end of the mobile communication device 935 to theother end of the mobile communication device 935 in the direction ofarrow 955, the backing of the film 950 is automatically removed whilethe exposed protective film is applied to the mobile communicationdevice 935.

FIG. 9E illustrates the roller 700 as the user is about to concludeapplication of the film 950. As shown, the film backing of the film 950is substantially separated from the applied portion of the film 950. Asshown in FIG. 9F, after the user finishes using the roller 700 to applythe film when the electronic device 935 is situated within the rollerguide apparatus 900, the user may remove any adhesive tabs that may havebeen used to attach the film 900 to the roller guide apparatus 900 forease of positioning of the film 950 during the application process.

As shown in FIG. 9G, the user may remove the mobile communication device935 from the roller apparatus guide 900 by simply popping it out orlifting the roller apparatus guide 900 off the mobile communicationdevice 935. If desired, the user may use the roller 700 and reinforcethe applied film in the manner shown in FIG. 9H.

FIG. 10A illustrates a system including a roller apparatus 1075 (whichmay be, for example, the roller apparatus 800, 700, 600, etc.), a rollerapparatus guide 1000 (which may be, for example, the roller apparatus900), a mobile communication device 1035, a protective film 1050 (with abacking portion 1060) to be applied to a mobile communication device1035, and a wedge 1080. Unlike the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.9A-9G, a wedge 1080 is incorporated in FIG. 10A to help the user applythe film 1050 to the mobile communication device 1035. While not drawnto scale, in one embodiment, a length 1081 of the wedge 1080 may beconfigured to fit within a distance 1001 between rails 1002.

FIG. 10B illustrates the wedge 1080 apart from the previously describedportions of the film application system. The wedge 1080 may besubstantially triangular in shape, although minor variations are allowedprovided that the functionality of the wedge 1080 remains (as describedwith respect to FIGS. 10E-10I). The wedge 1080 may comprise threeadjacent, connected surfaces 1085, 1090 and 1093 forming the structureof the wedge 1080. The spacing 1095 created by the connecting ofsurfaces 1085, 1090 and 1093 may be hollow or, in one embodiment, may befilled. As illustrated in FIGS. 10C-10D, the surfaces 1085, 1090 and1093 may be substantially flat and may have surface areas that are equalor different to one another (e.g., the surface area of the surface 1093may be 50% smaller than the surface area of the surface 1085 and/or1090).

As shown in FIG. 10E, the acute angle 1096 created between surfaces 1085and 1090 may be in the range of 0-90°, but preferably between 5-15°. Theangle 1096 is selected to allow the wedge 1080 to be manipulated by theroller 1075 during the application process.

Any of a plurality of materials including paper, cardboard, plastic,metal, wood, or combination thereof may be used to construct the wedge1080 to facilitate the main functionality of the wedge 1080. The usermay initially separate the backing 1060 of the protective film 1050 bypushing the roller apparatus 1075 into the wedge. Advantageously, theuser does not need to manually peel the backing 1060, and instead mayrely on the wedge 1080, thereby simplifying the process for the user. Inother words, the user can simply install the protective film 1050 bymoving the roller apparatus 1075 in one smooth, continuous motion.

FIGS. 10F-10J illustrate how the wedge 1080 may be used with the rollerapparatus 1075 and the roller guiding apparatus 1000 to apply the film1050 to the mobile communication device 1035.

As illustrated in FIG. 10F, initially, the wedge 1080 may be positionedbetween the film 1050 and the mobile communication device 1035 after themobile communication device 1035 is mounted by the roller guidingapparatus 1000. Here, the roller apparatus 1075 is placed at the top ofthe roller guiding apparatus 1000. As shown, in this position, the film1050 is separated from the surface of the mobile communication device1035 by the wedge 1080. In this initial position, the surface 1090 ofthe wedge 1080 contacts the top of the mobile communication device 1035and/or the top of the roller guiding apparatus 1000 while the othersurface 1085 of the wedge 1080 contacts the film 1050. In addition, thesurface 1085 adheres to a backing of film 1050 which assists the filmapplication process as illustrated in the following figures.

FIG. 10G illustrates the behavior of the wedge. As user moves the rollerapparatus 1075 across the roller guiding apparatus 1000 in the directionshown by arrow 1095, the roller apparatus 1075 places pressure on thefilm 1050 and/or the wedge 1080. This in turn causes the surface 1090 tobegin to move away from the top surface of the mobile communicationdevice 1035 and/or the top of the roller guiding apparatus 1000, whilethe surface 1085 continues to adhere to the backing of the film 1050.Furthermore, the configuration of the wedge 1080 and the attachment tothe backing portion 1060 of the film 1050 lends itself to be flippedupwards as shown in FIG. 10G.

As the user continues to move the roller apparatus 1075 in the directionof arrow 1095, the backing portion 1060 of the film 1050 begins toseparate from the portion of the film to be applied to the mobilecommunication device 1035 and at this position, the wedge 1080 is nolonger in contact with the surface of the mobile communication device1035. Instead, the wedge 1080 is separated from the top of the mobilecommunication device by the backing of the film 1050 as shown in FIG.10H.

FIG. 10I illustrates how the wedge 1080 works with the roller apparatus1075 to separate the backing portion 1060 of the film 1050 and appliesthe exposed protective portion of the film 1050 onto the mobilecommunication device 1035. As the user continues to move the rollerapparatus 1075 in the direction of arrow 1095, the pressure exerted bythe roller apparatus 1075 causes the wedge 1080 to “flip over” such thatthe backing portion 1060, which still adheres on one side to the surface1085 of the wedge 1080, is pulled away from the protective portion ofthe film 1050. In addition, the portion of the film 1050 that remains tobe separated is kept out of the way by resting on the edge between thesurfaces 1090 and 1093 of the wedge.

As the user manipulates the roller apparatus 1075 from the positionshown in FIG. 10I from the end proximal to the initial position and downthrough the rails 1002 of the roller apparatus guide 1000 to completethe film application process, the roller apparatus 1077 continues toapply force that moves the wedge 1080 away from its initial position asshown in FIG. 10J. Eventually, the wedge 1080 and the attached backingportion 1060 of the film 1050 may be completely separated from theprotective portion of the film 1050 applied to the mobile communicationdevice 1035, thereby completing the film application process.

In the manner described, the wedge 1080 may be utilized to assist theuser to apply a film 1050 to a mobile communication device 1035 inconjunction with the roller apparatus 1075 and the roller guidingapparatus 1000.

FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of a roller guiding apparatus1100. In this embodiment, the roller guiding apparatus 1100 may includea well for receiving any of a plurality of inserts (e.g., FIG. 12A or12B, described below). Each insert may be customized for a particularmobile communication device suitable for applying a protective film tothat particular mobile communication device. Advantageously, byconfiguring the roller guiding apparatus 1100 to receive any of a numberof inserts, the protective film application process may be customized toany number of mobile communication devices with differing dimensions,curves, etc. while requiring only one “universal” roller guidingapparatus 1100. In other words, the user may swap in and swap outdifferent inserts depending on the particular model of a mobilecommunication device.

The roller guiding apparatus 1100 may have a body 1160 which includeinterior side surfaces 1105 and an interior bottom surface 1125, whichin turn, define a well for receiving an insert apparatus (e.g., insert1201 of FIG. 12A or insert 1202 of FIG. 12B). The roller guidingapparatus 1100 may also include a pair of rails 1115 which may functionsimilarly to the rails 915 of FIG. 9A. The roller guiding apparatus 1100may further include a tab receiving portion 1185 which may be anindented area sized to fit and hold a tab of a protective film. In oneor more embodiments, the tab receiving portion 1185 may include one ormore side engagement members 1187 which may protrude and engage acorresponding hole in a tab. The receiving portion 1187 may also includea middle engagement member 1188 which may protrude and engage acorresponding middle hole in a tab. As shown, the roller guidingapparatus 1100 may include a base 1120 integrated at the bottom portionof the body 1160. The base 1120 may allow a user to press down on thedifferent portions during a film application process to stabilize theroller guiding apparatus 1100.

FIG. 12A illustrates one example of an insert 1201 having a ring 1250defining a cavity 1260 for receiving a mobile communication device. FIG.12B illustrates another example of another insert 1202 having a ring1251 defining a cavity 1261 for receiving a different mobilecommunication device. As shown, the inserts 1201 and 1202 may have asimilar or identical footprint. That is, the exterior surface of thering 1250 and 1251 may be of the same shape and size, and configured tofit within a well of a roller guiding apparatus (e.g., roller guidingapparatus 1100). However, the interior surface of the ring 1250 and 1251may be sized and shaped differently to fit and hold respective differentmodels of mobile communication devices. In this manner, the user maydesiring to apply a protective film to a Mobile Communication Device Afitting the interior cavity 1260 of the ring 1250 of FIG. 12A may swapin the insert 1201. And, if the user then desires to apply a protectivefile to a Mobile Communication Device B fitting the interior cavity 1261of the ring 1251 of FIG. 12B may remove the insert 1201 and replace itwith the insert 1202. Thus, by correlating (and designing) each insertto fit one model of a mobile communication device, a proper fitting andfilm application may be performed for any of a plurality of mobilecommunication devices by using only one “universal” roller guidingapparatus when the proper insert is used.

While the respective cavities shown by FIGS. 12A and 12B extendthroughout top and bottom surfaces of inserts 1201 and 1202, in otherembodiments, the bottom surface of the inserts may be closed.

FIG. 13 illustrates a film 1350 (which may be the film 950 of FIG. 9D)attached to a tab 1396 (which may be a version of tab 996 of FIG. 9D).The tab 1396 may be insertable and held in place by a roller guidingapparatus (e.g., roller guiding apparatus 1100) and may further includea pair of cylinders 1397 for engaging side engagement members of theroller guiding apparatus. The tab 1396 may also include a larger holebetween placement of the holes 1397 for engaging a middle engagementmember of the roller guiding apparatus. In this manner, the tab 1396 maybe held in place during a film application process. As shown here, awedge 1380 may also be used during the film application process (e.g.,similar to the functionality of the wedge 1080 of FIG. 10B).

In one or more embodiments, the film 1350 having the tab 1396 mayfurther be compatible with another roller guiding apparatus 1400. Inother words, the film 1350 may be compatible with roller guidingapparatus 1100 and/or the roller guiding apparatus 1400. The rollerguiding apparatus 1400 may differ from roller guiding apparatus 1100 inthat it is configured specifically for a particular model (i.e., sizeand shape) of a mobile communication device without requiring an insert.In one embodiment, the roller guiding apparatus 1400 is constructed outof plastic. However, other materials may be used such a metal.

As shown, the roller guiding apparatus 1400 may include a body 1460having interior side surfaces 1405 and an interior bottom surface 1425,which in turn, define a cavity or well 1461 sized and shaped forreceiving a particular model of a mobile communication device. In thismanner, the user may place the mobile communication device snuglyfitting the cavity or well 1461 for the purposes of applying the film(e.g., film 1360) to the mobile communication device. The depth of thecavity 1461 is about the thickness of the mobile communication device.

The roller guiding apparatus 1400 may also include a pair of rails 1415which may function similarly to the rails 915 of FIG. 9A. The rollerguiding apparatus 1400 may include a roller guiding surface 1499, whichmay include a top portion 1497 and side portions 1498. The top portion1497 may be a region for supporting the roller apparatus initiallyduring the film application process. The side portions 1498 may sandwich(e.g., be located on either side of) the cavity 1461 and each of the twoside portions 1498 may be adjacent to a corresponding rail 1415. Theside portions 1498 of the roller guiding surface 1499 function tosupport the roller during a film application process by providing asupport surface on the outside of the cavity 1461 and inside the rails1415. The top portion 1497 and the side portions 1498 lie along the sameplane. The interior bottom surface 1425 lies along a plane that issubstantially parallel to the plane of the top portion 1497 and the sideportions 1498.

The roller guiding apparatus 1400 may further include a tab receivingportion 1485 which may be an indented area sized to fit and hold a tabof a protective film. In one or more embodiments, the tab receivingportion 1485 may include one or more side engagement members 1487 whichmay protrude and engage a corresponding hole in a tab. The tab receivingportion 1485 may also include a middle engagement member 1488 which mayprotrude and engage a corresponding middle hole in a tab. Alternatively,the tab receiving portion 1485 may simply be a designated portion forattaching to a tab (which is attached, at least in part, to theprotective film). In other words, the tab may be attached in part to thetab receiving portion 1485 and attached in part to the protective film.The tab receiving portion 1485 may function along with the tab to alignthe protective film for easier and more accurate alignment andapplication of the protective film to the screen of the electronicdevice. The protective film is generally a clear thin plastic materialfor protecting the screen of the electronic device.

While not shown in FIG. 14, in one or more embodiments, the rollerguiding apparatus 1400 may include a base integrated at the bottomportion of the body 1460. The base may allow a user to press down on thedifferent portions during a film application process to stabilize theroller guiding apparatus 1400.

The physical structure of certain components now having been described,attention will now be turned to how these certain components interactwith each other to produce the desired effect of advantageouslysimplifying and making more efficient the process of applying aprotective film on a mobile communication device.

FIG. 15 illustrates a roller guiding apparatus-insert apparatus system1570 shown with an insert 1501 (which, for example, may be insert 1201of FIG. 12) inserted into a roller guiding apparatus 1500 (which forexample, may be roller guiding apparatus 1100 of FIG. 11).

FIG. 16 illustrates a roller guiding apparatus-insert apparatus system1670 with the protective film and tab in place, awaiting the insertionof the mobile communication device to be protected by the film. Moreparticularly, an insert 1601 (which, for example, may be insert 1201 ofFIG. 12) inserted into a roller guiding apparatus 1600 (which forexample, may be roller guiding apparatus 1100 of FIG. 11), and aprotective film 1650 having a tab 1696 is placed in position. Inpractice, mobile communication device designed to snugly fit within theinsert 1601 may be inserted into the cavity of the insert prior to theplacement of the protective film 1650 and the tab 1696 being placed inposition.

However, the mobile communication device in this instance has beenremoved for clarity.

As is shown in FIG. 16, the roller guiding apparatus 1600 may includerails 1615 for guiding a roller used in the film application process.The roller guiding apparatus 1600 may also include a base 1620 forallowing a user to better grip and manipulate the roller guidingapparatus 1600 during a film application process.

The interaction between the tab receiving portion 1686 and the tabportion 1696 is also illustrated in FIG. 16. Here, the tab 1696 may heldin position by the tab receiving portion by substantially lining up thetab 1696 into the indent at the tab portion 1696. Alternatively or inaddition, a pair of side engagement members 1687 of the tab receivingportion 1686 and a middle engagement member 1688 may penetratecorresponding holes 1697 and 1698 for holding the tab portion 1696 inplace and for accurately aligning the tab portion 1696 so that theprotective film 1650 can be properly and accurately applied onto themobile communication device.

Once the mobile communication device is inserted in place, operation toapply the protective film 1650 may be similar to operations describedherein (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 9B-9F).

FIG. 17 illustrates a roller guiding apparatus system 1770 with theprotective film and tab in place, awaiting the insertion of the mobilecommunication device to be protected by the film. That is, instead ofoperating with roller guiding apparatus 1670, the film 1650 may be usedin connection with the roller guiding apparatus system 1770.

The protective film 1650 having a tab portion 1696 is placed in positionas shown in FIG. 17. In practice, mobile communication device designedto fit within the roller guiding apparatus system 1770 may be insertedinto the cavity of the prior to the placement of the protective film1650 and the tab portion 1696 being placed in position. However, themobile communication device in this instance has been removed forclarity.

As is shown in FIG. 17, the roller guiding apparatus system 1770 may beconstructed out of a flexible, semi-rigid or rigid plastic material foruse in the film application process. The interaction between the tabreceiving portion 1786 and the tab portion 1696 is also illustrated inFIG. 17. Here, the tab 1696 may be held in position by the tab receivingportion 1786 by substantially lining up the tab 1696 into the indent atthe tab receiving portion 1786. Alternatively or in addition, a pair ofside engagement members 1796 and 1797 of the tab receiving portion 1786may penetrate corresponding holes 1686 and 1687, and a middle engagementmember 1798 may penetrate corresponding middle hole 1688 for holding thetab portion 1696 in place and for accurately aligning the tab portion1696 so that the protective film 1650 can be properly and accuratelyapplied onto the mobile communication device.

Once the mobile communication device is inserted in place, operation toapply the protective film 1650 may be similar to operations describedherein (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 9B-9F).

FIG. 18A illustrates one embodiment of a roller apparatus 1800. Theroller apparatus 1800 may be, for example, a variant of roller apparatus200, 300, 400 and may be structured to accomplish substantially the samefunctions. One difference between the roller apparatus 1800 and otherroller apparatuses whether disclosed herein or not, is that the rollerapparatus 1800 may include the finger supporting platform 1825 havingthe plurality of indentations 1826, 1827 and 1828. The finger supportingplatform 1825 is substantially flat except for the areas of theplurality of indentations 1826, 1827 and 1828.

As shown, the roller apparatus 1800 may further include a roller base orcarriage 1805, a first or front roller 1810, a second or back roller1815 and a mid-bar 1820.

The roller base 1805 may be constructed out of a rigid material such asa plastic, a metal, a wood and the like. The roller base 1805 isconfigured to provide structural support for the roller apparatus 1800.In addition, the roller base 1805 may be sized to be easily manipulatedand by the user placing one of his or her fingers in each of theplurality of indentations 1826, 1827 and 1828.

The roller base 1805 may be configured to hold the first roller 1810 inplace and allow the first roller 1810 to “roll” or rotate about alongitudinal axis created by the roller base 1805. In one example, theroller base 1805 may be structured to include a first rod member (notshown) spanning the entire length of the first roller 1810, therebyforming an axis or axle for the first roller 1810 to rotate about. Thefirst roller 1810 is configured to rotate and apply physical pressure ona film (e.g., film 150 of FIG. 1) in operation. The second roller 1815may be an additional pressure applicator and may be substantially thesame size as, and substantially parallel to the first roller 1810. Theroller apparatus 1800 may include a second rod member (not shown)spanning the entire length of the second roller 1815, thereby forming anaxis or axle for the second roller 1815 to rotate about. The firstroller 1810 and the second roller 1815 may be separated by a mid bar1820. The mid bar 1820 may connect the two ends of the roller base 1805and provide the entire roller apparatus 1800 with stability.

FIG. 18B is a perspective view of the roller apparatus 1800. In oneembodiment, the roller apparatus 1800 may be configured to function as afilm applicator for phone-sized devices and may have a length of 1-2inches, a width of 2-4 inches, and a height of 0.5-1 inch. In oneembodiment, the roller apparatus 1800 may be configured to function as afilm applicator for tablet-sized devices and may have a length of 1-5inches, a width of 8-12 inches, and a height of 0.5-2 inches. Otherdimensions are also possible depending on the size of the device to beprotected and/or depending on the size of the film to be applied. Asshown, each of the plurality of indentations 1826, 1827 and 1828 has acurved concave surface for easy manipulation by the user's fingers andfor allowing stronger pressure to be applied for proper application(i.e., little to no air bubbles between the protective film and theelectronic communication device) of the protective film.

FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a system 1900, which may include theroller apparatus 1800 of FIG. 18A, the roller guide apparatus 1400 ofFIG. 14, the wedge 1380 (e.g., a triangular shaped wedge) of FIG. 13B,and the protective film 1650 of FIG. 16. The roller guide apparatus 1400is substantially rectangular in shape (e.g., with rounded edges) and thecavity 1461 is substantially rectangular in shape (e.g., with roundededges) or shaped to allow the electronic device 135 to fit snuglytherein. As shown, the electronic device 135 of FIG. 1 in inserted intothe cavity 1461 of the roller guide apparatus 1400 such that the topsurface or screen of the electronic device 135 is flush with (i.e., liesalong the same or substantially the same plane) or is slightly above theside portions or surfaces 1498 of the roller supporting surface 1499 ofthe roller guide apparatus 1400. As shown, the roller apparatus 1800 ispositioned between the rails 1415 at the top portion 1497 of the rollerguide apparatus 1400. The rails 1415 protrude or extend above the rollersupporting surface 1499. The rails 1415 are used to contain or guide theroller apparatus 1800 therebetween for moving the roller apparatus 1800along or on the roller supporting surface 1499.

The wedge 1380 is attached to a backing of the protective film 1650. Thewedge 1380 is used to help pull the backing off the protective film 1650when the roller apparatus 1400 is pushed against the tab 1696 and/or theprotective film 1650. Once the backing of the protective film 1650 ispartially or fully separated from the adhesive portion, the rollerapparatus 1400 may be moved in the direction of the arrows to performboth the application of the protective film 1650 and the removal of thebacking of the protective film 1650. Furthermore, the rails 1415 aresubstantially parallel and serve to align and guide the movement of theroller apparatus 1400, thus the system 1900 may be considered to beself-aligning and air bubble-free.

FIG. 19B is a top view of the system 1900 of FIG. 19A and more clearlyillustrates the top portion of the roller supporting surface 1499 onwhich the roller apparatus 1800 is shown positioned. The side portions1498 of the roller supporting surface 1499 are shown on both sides ofthe electronic device 135 and function as portions of the roller guideapparatus 1400 which support the roller apparatus 1800 during the filmapplication process.

In one or more embodiments, the rails 1415 of the roller guide apparatus1400 may be removed or eliminated to allow the user variations incontrol of the movement of the roller apparatus 1800.

FIG. 20A illustrates another embodiment of a roller apparatus 2000 whichmay be used to apply a protective film to a surface of a mobilecommunication device. Here, the roller apparatus 2000 may include aroller 2005 attached to a body 2010. The body 2010 may include a head2015, a curved neck 2025 and a shaft 2030 configured to be gripped by auser's hand for operation of the roller apparatus 2000. The head 2015may be attached to the roller 2005 via connectors 2020 which enable theroller 2005 to spin about an axis in a manner similar to the otherrollers described herein to apply a pressure to a protective film (e.g.,film 1650) during a film application process. FIGS. 20B and 20Cillustrate a side view and a front view of the roller apparatus 2000.The roller 2000 may be used as a stand alone device or as part of asystem including a roller supporting apparatus (e.g., in place of roller1800 as part of the system 1900).

FIG. 21 illustrates a system 2100, which may include the roller guideapparatus 1400 of FIG. 14, the wedge 1380 of FIG. 13B, and theprotective film 1650 and tab 1696 of FIG. 16. The system may alsoinclude a flange 2102 and an adhesive film 2104, and may include aroller apparatus, for example the roller apparatus 1800 of FIG. 18A (notshown).

The flange 2102 is configured to couple to the protective film 1650 toprovide support for the film 1650. The flange 2102 extends outward fromthe film 1650 when coupled thereto. In one embodiment, the flange 2102may comprise a rigid structure, having a rigidity that is greater thanthe protective film 1650. The rigidity of the flange 2102 may provideadded strength to the protective film 1650 when the protective film 1650is applied to a surface of a mobile communication device, for examplethe mobile communication device 135 of FIG. 1. The flange 2102 may alsobe shaped to apply a shape to the protective film 1650 when the flange2102 is coupled to the protective film 1650. The flange 2102 shown inFIG. 21, for example, has a curved shape (more clearly shown in FIG.22D). The shape of the flange 2102 may deflect a portion of theprotective film 1650 away from the mobile communication device that ispositioned within the cavity 1461. The protective film 1650 may moreeasily apply to a surface of the mobile communication device if theprotective film 1650 is deflected away from the surface of the mobilecommunication device, prior to, or while being applied.

The flange 2102 may have any shape that allows it to provide support forthe film 1650. For example, the flange 2102 shown in FIG. 21 isu-shaped, as it has two parallel lengths connected by a transverseconnecting length. When the flange 2102 shown in FIG. 21 is coupled tothe protective film 1650, the protective film 1650 is bounded by thelengths of the u-shaped flange 2102.

The flange 2102 may be sized to fit between the rails 1415 of the rollerguide apparatus 1400. The flange 2102 may be sized to abut each of therails 1415 when the protective film 1650 is applied to the surface ofthe mobile communication device. The abutment of the flange 2102 to therails 1415 may serve to reduce movement of the protective film 1650towards at least one of the rails 1415 when the protective film 1650 isapplied to the surface of the mobile communication device. Theprotective film 1650 may accordingly be more accurately aligned andapplied to the surface of the mobile communication device.

The adhesive film 2104 may be configured to couple the flange 2102 tothe protective film 1650. The adhesive film 2104 may also join theprotective film 1650 to the tab 1696. The adhesive film 2104 may includeadhesive that bonds to the flange 2102 and the protective film 1650. Aportion or the entirety of the adhesive film 2104 may include adhesivethat bonds with any of the flange 2102, protective film 1650, or tab1696. In one embodiment, the adhesive film 2104 may extend outward fromthe protective film 1650. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG.21, the adhesive film 2104 is configured to extend outward from theprotective film 1650 to join with the flange 2102. The flange 2102couples to the protective film 1650 with the adhesive film 2104.

The adhesive film 2104 may be configured to be as rigid or flexible asthe protective film 1650. In one embodiment, the adhesive film 2104 maybe less rigid than the flange 2102. In one embodiment, the adhesive film2104 may be as rigid as the flange 2102.

The components of the system 2100 may be provided as components that arecoupled together, or may be provided as components to be coupledtogether by an individual. For example, the system 2100 may be providedas a kit that is assembled by an end-user.

FIG. 22A illustrates the protective film 1650 coupled to the wedge 1380.The wedge 1380 is preferably positioned beneath the protective film1650. The wedge 1380 may be adhered to the protective film 1650 at anend of the protective film 1650, through any suitable method or meansdiscussed in this application.

FIG. 22B illustrates the adhesive film 2104 coupled to the protectivefilm 1650. The adhesive film 2104 is preferably positioned on top of theprotective film 1650. The adhesive film 2104 extends outward from theprotective film 1650. The adhesive film 1650 also couples the protectivefilm 1650 to the tab 1696. The adhesive film 1650 includes adhesiveportions 2201 that include an adhesive, such as a glue, that is used tocouple the flange 2102 to the protective film 1650. Any other form ofadhesive or other coupling method or means discussed in this applicationmay be used by the adhesive film 2014 to couple the flange 2102 to theprotective film 1650.

FIG. 22C illustrates the flange 2102 coupled to the protective film1650. The flange 2102 couples with the adhesive portions of the adhesivefilm 2104 that extend outward from the protective film 1650 to couple tothe protective film 1650. The flange 2102 is preferably positioned ontop of the adhesive film 2104. As such, in the embodiment shown in FIG.22C, the flange 2102 surrounds the protective film 1650 without coveringthe protective film 1650.

FIG. 22D illustrates a curvature of the flange 2102. The curvature isrepresented by the arrows 2202. The flange 2102 is curved from one endto the other such that the flange 2102 curves in a direction away fromthe cavity 1461 when the flange 2102 is coupled to the protective film2104 and the protective film 2104 is coupled to the roller guideapparatus 1400. The flange 2102 may have a uniform curve or may bevariably curved or non-curved at portions of the flange 2102.

FIG. 22E illustrates a side perspective view of the flange 2102 coupledto the protective film 1650. The curvature of the flange 2102 applies acurvature to the protective film 1650 represented by arrows 2204. Thecurvature of the protective film 1650 may substantially match thecurvature of the flange 2102.

FIG. 22F illustrates a top view of the flange 2102 and the protectivefilm 1650 coupled to the roller guide apparatus 1400. In thisembodiment, the rails 1415 of the apparatus 1400 are separated from oneanother at a distance 2206. The flange 2102 is sized to form a width2208 that extends the distance 2206 of the rails 1415, such that theflange 2102 fits between the rails 1415. The width 2208 may besubstantially identical to the distance 2206 such that the flange 2102closely fits between the rails 1415 with a small amount, or no spacetherebetween. The flange 2102 may be sized in this manner such that theflange 2102 abuts each of the rails 1415 when the protective film 1650is applied to the mobile communication device. The flange 2102 maycontact the rails 1415 to reduce movement of the protective film 1650transverse to the direction the film 1650 is applied, so that the film1650 aligns and applies accurately to the surface of the mobilecommunication device. If a roller apparatus is used to apply the film1650, the flange 2102 may prevent the protective film 1650 from shiftingtransverse to the direction the roller apparatus is rolled, which may becaused be a user applying a transverse force to the protective film 1650with the roller apparatus.

The configuration of the flange 2102, the protective film 1650, theadhesive film 2104, and the roller guide apparatus 1400 shown in FIG.22F may be provided to an end-user, or an end-user may assemble thecomponents 2102, 1650, 2104, 1400 into the configuration shown in FIG.22F. Each of the components 2102, 1650, 2104, 1400 may be configured tocouple to each other prior to the end-user coupling the components toeach other. Each of the components 2102, 1650, 2104, 1400 may beconfigured to removably couple to each other such that an end user mayseparate the components after use.

FIG. 23A illustrates a side perspective view of the flange 2102 and theprotective film 1650 coupled to the roller guide apparatus 1400. Theflange 2102 has a curvature represented by the arrows 2302 and appliesthis curvature to the protective film 1650 to deflect the protectivefilm 1650 away from the surface of the mobile communication device 135.An end of the protective film 1650 that is positioned closer to the tab1696 is positioned closer to the surface of the mobile communicationdevice 135 than the opposing end of the protective film 1650.

The deflection of the protective film 1650 away from the mobilecommunication device 135 serves to allow a backing portion of theprotective film 1650 to more easily separate from an application portionof the protective film 1650. The deflection of the protective film 1650may create space for the backing portion to pass away from theapplication portion in a direction away from the tab 1696. In addition,in an embodiment in which the wedge 1308 is utilized, the wedge 1308 maymore easily pass in a direction away from the tab 1696 if the opposingend of the protective film 1650 is elevated.

FIG. 23B illustrates the embodiment shown in FIG. 23A after the backingportion 1660 has been partially separated from the application portion1655. The wedge 1308 has passed in a direction away from the tab 1696.The application portion 1655 is applied to the surface of the mobilecommunications device 135. The flange 2102 abuts each of the rails 1415when the application portion 1655 is applied to the surface of themobile communications device 135. The flange 2102 abuts an interiorsurface of each of the rails 1415 that faces towards the other rail1415. The interior surface contacts the flange 2102 to prevent or reducethe opportunity for the application portion 1655 to slide side to sideand be improperly aligned on the surface of the mobile communicationsdevice 135. The flange 2102 may be lowered while the application portion1655 is applied, from the height shown in FIG. 23A to the height shownin FIG. 23B. The lowering of the flange 2102 may be caused by the wedge1308 being drawn out from beneath the protective film 1650, and/or bythe protective film 1650 being pressed downward during the applicationprocess. A roller apparatus may be used to apply the protective film1650 in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B. The flange 2102remains coupled to the application portion 1655 while the backingportion 1660 is separated from the flange 2102. The flange 2102 may beremoved from the application portion 1655 at a later time.

FIG. 24A illustrates an embodiment in which the flange 2402 is coupledto the protective film 1650 without use of an adhesive film. The flange2402 in this embodiment may be directly adhered to the protective film1650 through use of a suitable adhesive or any other suitable method ormeans disclosed in this application. A separate film 2497 may couple theprotective film 1650 to the tab 1696. The flange 2402 in this embodimentmay comprise two separate pieces that extend outward from the protectivefilm 1650. The two pieces of the flange 2402 may combine to form a width2404 that extends the distance 2206 of the rails 1415, such that theflange 2402 fits between the rails 1415. The width 2404 may besubstantially identical to the distance 2206 such that the flange 2402closely fits between the rails 1415 with a small amount, to no spacetherebetween, in an manner similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 22F.The flange 2402 may similarly be sized such that the flange 2402 abutseach of the rails 1415 when the protective film 1650 is applied to themobile communications device.

The flange 2402 in this embodiment may not have a curve, or otherdeflected shape. The flange 2402 may comprise substantially straightenedmaterial.

FIG. 24B illustrates a side perspective view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 24A. The flange 2402 in this embodiment does not apply a curvatureto the protective film 1650.

In one embodiment, the flange 2402 may be sized to extend out furtherthan the distance 2206 between the rails 1415. In one embodiment, theflange 2402 may not abut the rails 1415, but may provide rigidity andstability to the protective film 1650 during application to the mobilecommunication device by comprising a flanged structure extending fromthe protective film 1650. Any of the components discussed in FIGS.21-24B may be utilized or interchanged with any other componentdiscussed in this application to produce a desired result.

Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varyingways for each particular application, but such implementation decisionsshould not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of thedisclosed apparatus and/or methods.

The previous description of examples is provided to enable any person ofordinary skill in the art to make or use the disclosed methods andapparatus. Various modifications to these examples will be readilyapparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles defined hereinmay be applied to other examples without departing from the spirit orscope of the disclosed method and apparatus. The elements and uses ofthe above-described embodiments can be rearranged and combined inmanners other than specifically described above, with any and allpermutations within the scope of invention. The described embodimentsare to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and notrestrictive and the scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated bythe appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Allchanges which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of theclaims are to be embraced within their scope. In addition, the inventionis not limited to the illustrated embodiments, and all embodiments ofthe invention need not necessarily achieve all the advantages orpurposes or possess all characteristics identified herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system comprising: an apparatus including: aninner wall defining a cavity configured to receive a mobilecommunication device, and a surface positioned outside of the cavity; abacking layer of a screen protector; a protective layer of the screenprotector, the protective layer being affixed to the backing layer andhaving a first end and a second end and a length therebetween, with thesecond end configured to extend away from the first end such that thelength of the protective layer extends along a length of the cavity,with the protective layer being sized to fit within the cavity, and theprotective layer configured to be applied to a screen of the mobilecommunication device when the backing layer is separated from theprotective layer; and a tab having a first portion and a second portion,the first portion of the tab configured to couple to the surface and thesecond portion of the tab configured to couple to the protective layerto thereby couple the protective layer to the surface and sandwich theprotective layer between the second portion of the tab and the backinglayer, and the tab configured to couple to the surface such that thefirst portion of the tab and the protective layer each remain coupled tothe surface while the backing layer is being separated from theprotective layer.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner walldefines a depth of the cavity.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein theinner wall defines a perimeter of the cavity.
 4. The system of claim 1,wherein the inner wall includes four side surfaces defining arectangular shape of the cavity.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein theinner wall extends from a bottom of the cavity to an upper boundary ofthe cavity, and the surface positioned outside of the cavity extendsoutward from the upper boundary of the cavity.
 6. The system of claim 1,wherein the screen protector is sized such that the second end of thescreen protector may move in and out of the cavity when the mobilecommunication device is not positioned in the cavity.
 7. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the screen protector is configured such that thebacking layer is positioned between the protective layer and the mobilecommunication device when the mobile communication device is positionedin the cavity and the screen protector extends over the mobilecommunication device.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the firstportion of the tab is configured to directly couple to the surface andthe second portion of the tab is configured to directly couple to theprotective layer.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the tab has a lengthand a width, and the tab is configured to couple to the protective layerand the surface such that the length of the tab extends along the lengthof the protective layer but does not extend further than the second endof the protective layer.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the tab isconfigured to couple to the surface with an adhesive.
 11. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the protective layer is configured to be applied to thescreen with an adhesive.
 12. A system comprising: an apparatusincluding: side surfaces defining a cavity configured to receive amobile communication device, and a portion of the apparatus positionedoutside of the cavity; a backing layer of a screen protector; aprotective layer of the screen protector, the protective layer beingaffixed to the backing layer and having a first end and a second end anda length therebetween, with the second end configured to extend awayfrom the first end such that the length of the protective layer extendsalong a length of the cavity, with the protective layer being sized tofit within the cavity, and the protective layer configured to be appliedto a screen of the mobile communication device when the backing layer isseparated from the protective layer; and a tab having a first portionand a second portion, the first portion of the tab configured to coupleto the portion of the apparatus and the second portion of the tabconfigured to couple to the protective layer to thereby couple theprotective layer to the portion of the apparatus and sandwich theprotective layer between the second portion of the tab and the backinglayer, and the tab configured to couple to the portion of the apparatussuch that the first portion of the tab and the protective layer eachremain coupled to the portion of the apparatus while the backing layeris being separated from the protective layer.
 13. The system of claim12, wherein the tab is configured to attach to the protective layer suchthat the tab separates from the backing layer when the backing layer isseparated from the protective layer.
 14. The system of claim 13, whereinthe screen protector is configured such that the backing layer ispositioned between the protective layer and the mobile communicationdevice when the mobile communication device is positioned in the cavityand the screen protector extends over the mobile communication device.15. The system of claim 14, wherein the portion of the apparatuscomprises a tab receiving portion.
 16. The system of claim 14, whereinthe tab is configured to couple to the portion of the apparatus to alignthe protective layer over the screen of the mobile communication devicewhen the mobile communication device is positioned in the cavity. 17.The system of claim 14, wherein the backing layer extends along thelength of the protective layer.
 18. The system of claim 14, wherein thefirst portion of the tab is configured to removably couple to theportion of the apparatus and the second portion of the tab is configuredto removably couple to the protective layer.
 19. The system of claim 14,wherein the tab is configured to removably couple to the portion of theapparatus with an adhesive.
 20. The system of claim 14, wherein theprotective layer is configured to be applied to the screen with anadhesive.